Dynamic infant head support

ABSTRACT

A dynamic infant head support for preventing, or correcting, the abnormal shape of a head of an infant, and a method of using the support for treating deformational plagiocephaly. The support is an oval-shaped pillow, with a central opening to receive the head of the infant to be treated. Spaced barriers divide the interior of the pillow into a plurality of compartments. A ring-like manifold passes through the interior of the pillow and communicates with each compartment. A plurality of valves is operatively associated with the manifold; one valve is located in each compartment. The valves allow fluid, such as pressurized air, in the manifold, to inflate individual compartments. The manifold is pressurized by a pump, at a remote location; a heater warms the pressurized air. A remote controller is connected to the valves by electrical leads. The controller governs the sequence of operation of the valves, and regulates the duration of time that each valve is open. The controller may be programmed, to inflate or expand the compartments in the pillow, to gently lift, and mildly turn, the head of the infant positioned thereon, thus combating the abnormal shape or deformation.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention pertains to an apparatus and method for preventing,inhibiting progression of, and/or correcting plagiocephaly, an abnormalshape of the head of a human, usually an infant. The invention relatesto a dynamic head support with sequential inflation and deflation of itscompartments to provide variable external light pressures to the cranialvault and gentle changes in head position.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The cranium, or skull, of a human infant is made up of several boneplates bridged by compliant membranous separations, known as sutures.These sutures solidify to herald the completion of rapid brain growth ateighteen to twenty-four months of age. Normally, the infant skull issymmetrical in shape. However, the shape of the head may be influencedby in utero constraint, external pressures during the birth process, aswell as modeling and gravitation forces on the rapidly developing skullof an infant after birth. A condition known as occipital positionalplagiocephaly, or deformational plagiocephaly, results in anasymmetrical head. This abnormal skull is most often a classicparallelogram or rhomboid shape, with bulging of the forehead andforward displacement of one ear as well as facial asymmetry, whenobserved from a top down or plan view.

Approximately one out of every three hundred healthy birth infants havea noticeable flattening of the head, asymmetry of the skull base andface, or both. Risk factors for plagiocephaly include prematurity,multiple births (twins, triplets), congenital anomalies, neurologicalinjury, delayed muscle and motor development, tumors, and cervicaldefects.

Positional plagiocephaly has had an increased incidence since 1992 whenthe American Academy of Pediatrics initiated the “Back to Sleep”campaign, encouraging the placement of infants on their backs instead oftheir stomachs for sleeping purposes. The campaign reduced theoccurrence of sudden infant death (SIDS), but led to a notableescalation in the number of plagiocephalic children. Another factor thatmay have contributed to the greater incidence of deformationalplagiocephaly is increased usage of car seats, infant carriers, babyswings, “bouncy seats,” strollers, cribs and stationary toy gyms. Yetother factors may include feedings and social interactions that areroutinely offered from the same side of the infant, as well as apreferred position when carrying the child.

Dysfunction of the neck musculature is almost universally associatedwith plagiocephaly. Neck abnormality, such as torticollis, is oneimportant cause of plagiocephaly; likewise, existing skull deformitypredisposes to torticollis and other forms of neck imbalance. Long termproblems associated with plagiocephaly include subtle cerebraldysfunction (language disorders, learning disability, attention deficitsand disorders of processing sensory stimulation), various functionaldisabilities caused by facial and jaw asymmetry, and psychosocial issuessuch as depression and tainted self-image.

Early assessment, diagnosis, and rehabilitation of plagiocephaly havebeen prerequisites for successful treatment to date. The value ofeducation of caregivers, hospital personnel, and parents about theimportance of alternating infant sleeping and feeding orientationsshould not be overlooked. Additionally, supervised “tummy time” forinfants continues to be encouraged. Since 80% of postnatal brain growth,which can direct head shape, occurs early in life, plagiocephalicpatients under the age of 18 months are also often given active andpassive neck stretching exercises, to perform regularly, as the firstline of treatment.

Helmet therapy, or use of external cranial remodeling orthotic devices,has been used alone and as an adjunct treatment option forplagiocephaly. These orthotic devices are predicated upon the theorythat pressure from a rapidly growing brain against a concave surfacewill round flattened or deformed areas caused by earlier pressureagainst a flat surface. The optimum response for orthotic helmets, bandsand caps is said to occur at ages of 4-12 months, which represents theperiod of greatest malleability of the skull bone, with the normalizingeffect of rapid brain growth. Nonetheless, 25% of infants 3-6 months ofage, 70% of infants 6-18 months of age, and 100% of older childrenundergo surgical correction for progression of the condition.

An orthotic helmet for treating deformational cranial asymmetry is shownin U.S. Pat. No. 4,776,324, granted to S. K. Clarren, on Oct. 11, 1988.The dimensions of the therapeutic helmet cavity are prescribed inrelation to specific CT scan sections of the plagiocephalic infant'scranium, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 of the Clarren patent. A gradedseries of sized helmets is provided for such treatments. Each helmetcavity is configured to accommodate and treat infants of specified agesand degrees of plagiocephaly.

Orthotic bands, or caps, for remodeling the cranium are disclosed inU.S. Pat. No. 5,951,503, granted Sep. 14, 1999 to Jeanne K. Pomatto, andU.S. Pat. No. 6,423,019, granted Jul. 23, 2002, to Francis Papay et al.Each band provides at least one recess into which the skull may beremodeled as it grows. The orthotic band of Papay et al further includesat least one expandable bladder, on the inner wall of the band.

Other orthotic devices are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,094,229, grantedMar. 10, 1992, to Jeanne K. Pomatto et al, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,428,494,granted Aug. 6, 2002, to Stannon F. Schwenn et al.

Despite some advances in cranial remodeling, these prior art appliancesare costly, uncomfortable and unsightly to wear and difficult to retainin position. Moreover, these devices require both complex measures toaccommodate each individual patient as well as the intervention ofskilled doctors, educators, and trained medical personnel.

The key to successful management of deformational plagiocephaly isprevention of its occurrence altogether. A number of devices have beenused with the goal of preventing early skull deformation includingcontour pillows, foam pads with cut-outs of varying sizes, and staticinfant positioning devices. However, none of these devices presentdynamic options that also alter orientation of the infant's head toreduce “side preference,” favored head orientation by the infant whichfosters progressive neck imbalance and skull deformity. Furthermore, allof the known devices and techniques also necessitate the costlyinvolvement of knowledgeable, skilled care providers and educators toachieve satisfactory results.

The requirement for a simple, yet effective, dynamic head support thatprevents deformational plagiocephaly, while obviating the need forskilled care providers and frequent intervention, remains unfulfilled.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the shortcomings of known static devices for treatingpositional skull deformities, the present invention provides a dynamichead support comprising an oval or doughnut-shaped pillow with a centralopening, for effectively mitigating plagiocephaly. The pillow should beformed of a pliable, elastomeric material that allows for inflation anddeflation, but may also have other desirable properties such as anon-latex outer contact surface that is hypoallergenic, waterproof,heat-resistant/flame retardant, and antibacterial or washable forhygienic use with subsequent patients.

The pillow comprises a plurality of separate compartments, which areinflated and deflated individually and sequentially. The center of thepillow, which receives the base of the skull of the infant, can remainopen to the surface below or it may house a loose fitting fabric slingacross the opening as long as this covering provides virtually noexternal pressure upon the infant's head.

In the preferred embodiment, a central ring of tubing, or a manifold, islocated in the interior of the pillow, and forced air is deliveredthroughout the pillow via the manifold. The manifold can be fabricatedof rigid or semi-rigid rubber, plastic or metal. A network of individualair tubes branches out of the central ring of tubing; each individualtube services one of the compartments. A reversible pump delivers andevacuates forced or pressurized air to and from distinct pillowcompartments.

Pillow compartments are recruited in an alternating pattern by means ofsolenoid valves located in each compartment that open (unclamp) or close(clamp) each of the individual air tubes in accordance with acomputerized program. The inflatable compartments expand from below andslightly inward toward the skull in order to make enough contact withthe head to apply a gentle external pressure that is also capable ofsubtly lifting and/or delicately rotating the head. Compartments areideally inflated individually for a specified time period, but may alsobe recruited as adjacent pairs, multiple sections, or all of themtogether. The valves, located proximal to the main central ring ormanifold, are in a closed or clamped position at baseline and, thus, thepillow compartments are deflated.

When a valve is programmed to open an air tube, the compartment itempties into receives air pressure and subsequently expands. Thecompartment is decompressed via the reversible pump after a presetinflation interval. Sequential inflation and deflation of the individualcompartments prevent constant molding pressures from being exerted onthe skull, while gentle manipulation of the child's head also defeatsthe development of preferential head orientation by the infant. Movementof the subject's head is accomplished by gradual inflation and a defineddegree of compartment expansion to simulate careful manualmanipulations, particularly for the fragile premature, post-surgical orcritically ill patient, often intubated with a breathing tube forrespiratory assistance or otherwise particularly sensitive to abruptstimulation.

In a first alternative embodiment, the manifold as well as the branchedindividual air tubes and corresponding solenoid valves are locatedexterior to the pillow. In this arrangement, each air tube isindividually attached to the pillow, prior to use, via a common couplingon the outer edge of a corresponding compartment. This arrangementallows for the availability of a single external assembly (manifold withcompatible tubing and valves) to universally accommodate differentpillows. This embodiment also provides for easier maintenance orreplacement of necessary parts.

Rather than using forced air to expand and contract the walls of thecompartments, a different fluid or gel medium, or mechanical devices,can alternatively be used.

The outer surface of each compartment may include multiple soft, tinyprojections or slightly raised air cells that aid in the gentle movementof the infant's head, while comfortably massaging same. Alternatively,the pillow surface may be smooth, allowing for a replaceable covering orsleeve to envelop it.

The oval shape of the pillow is significant, for the lower edge of thepillow provides natural support of the neck region of the supine infantor patient. The pillow may also be used in conjunction with atorso-stabilizing wedge to preclude the infant from rotating to a proneposition, a potential suffocation risk. Alternatively, the head supportcan be fastened to a virtually flat, but flexible, cushioned rectangularbase that lies below the infant's shoulders to approximately themid-back of the child, such as by providing Velcro (hook and loop)attachments between the back of the pillow and the flat base. With thisarrangement, the device supports attachable soft bolsters to secure theshoulders in supine position and allows the device to also be moreeasily positioned and secured for use in the seat of a stroller, babyswing or other infant apparatus. An attached foam ring base, extendingaround the entire circumference on the underside of the pillow toprovide additional structure and support, is also contemplated.

The forced air may also be warmed to soothe the premature infant andassist in regulating body temperature.

Power for operating the pump delivering forced air to the selectedpillow compartments may be supplied by a battery, or from a plug-inoutlet in the wall of a building. The plug cord may be of apredetermined length or of a known retractable design. For further easeof use, the power switch can be illuminated or activated and deactivatedby remote control.

The present invention represents a versatile device that can be producedin varying sizes appropriate for premature infants through the age ofapproximately one year, based on normalized head circumference chartaverages. A second alternative embodiment employs two or more concentrichead support pillows, with a separate set of compartments correspondingto distinct manifolds. In effect, this embodiment constitutes a smallerdiameter head support surrounded by a larger head support. The advantageof pairing different-sized complete head supports together is theability to service numerous patients, with diverse head sizes, with theavailability of a single, readily adaptable device. The smaller and mostinterior pillow employs an interior assembly of manifold, valves andtubes while the larger, outermost pillow or pillows utilizes an exteriorassembly of manifold, valves and tubes. The appropriate pillow andassociated assembly is selected based on the head size of the patient.The inner head support is arranged in a slightly lower or depressedplane relative to the plane of the outer head support. Therefore, whenthe inner head support is not in use it does not interfere with thefunctioning of the outer head support because of its position below thepatient's head within the central opening of the outer pillow. When useof the inner head support is favored, the entire device is inverted toexpose a now slightly elevated inner head support surrounded by adeflated outer head support. Similarly, in this orientation, there is nointerference of the inner head support function by the idle outer headsupport.

The dynamic head support is suitable for use in a hospital setting forpatients subject to prolonged supine positioning, such as in anintensive care unit setting or during general anesthesia, as well as forhome use. The basic principles of the invention may also be useful forolder children, and even adults, with neurological injury, chronicillness, or other disabilities.

The envisioned method is one of treating head deformities in infants andyoung children in a simple, effective manner, relying upon selectiveinflation of compartments within the dynamic head support to gently liftand mildly turn the head, without the frequent intervention of skilledpersonnel. The method can be implemented by a controller, of knowndesign, that can be programmed to govern the inflation, and deflation,of selected compartments within the pillow. Reversibleinflation/deflation pumps, as well as the solenoid valves, are wellunderstood by those skilled in the art and are also readily commerciallyavailable. Moreover, these pumps and controllers are manufactured inconvenient sizes that can be opportunely attached to a bedside, infantisolette or crib, or even be incorporated as an integral part of thehead support itself.

Other objectives realized by the dynamic head support with individuallyinflatable compartments will be gleaned from the appended drawings andthe accompanying specifications.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top plan view of the preferred embodiment of a dynamicinfant head support constructed in accordance with the principles of thepresent invention;

FIG. 1A is a vertical cross-sectional view through the dynamic infanthead support of FIG. 1, such view being taken along line 1A-1A, and inthe direction indicated;

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the preferred embodiment of a system forinflating the dynamic infant head support of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3A shows the dynamic infant head support of FIG. 1 in deflatedcondition;

FIGS. 3B, 3C and 3D show different compartments within the dynamicinfant head support in inflated condition;

FIG. 4 is a top plan view of an infant's head resting upon the dynamicinfant head support;

FIG. 5 is a bottom view of an infant's head resting upon the dynamichead support;

FIG. 6A is a top plan view of the head of a normal infant;

FIG. 6B is a top plan view of the deformed head of an infant;

FIG. 7 is a schematic view of a first alternative embodiment of a systemfor inflating the dynamic infant head support of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a fragmentary view of a second alternative embodiment of asystem for inflating the dynamic infant head support(s);

FIG. 9A is a vertical cross-sectional view of the head support of FIG.8, showing the outer head support in fully inflated condition while theinner head support lies below within the central opening of the outerhead support; and

FIG. 9B is a view of FIG. 9A inverted, showing the inner head support infully inflated condition atop the deflated outer head support.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

FIG. 1 depicts the unique dynamic infant head support 10, or pillow.Support 10 is an oval or doughnut-shaped ring and includes sevencompartments 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22 and 24 of approximately equal size.Barriers 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36 and 38 separate the compartments fromone another. The dimensions of each compartment are defined by a firstbarrier, a second adjacent barrier, an outer wall and an inner wall. Toillustrate, compartment 12 is defined by barrier 38 and barrier 26, andby outer wall 40 and inner wall 42. An oval-shaped opening 44 is formedin the interior of head support 10. The oval shape of head support 10ensures that compartment 12, at the base of the support, adequatelysupports the neck of an infant in a supine position.

FIG. 1A shows a vertical cross-sectional view through the dynamic infanthead support of FIG. 1, such view being taken along line 1A-1A, and inthe direction indicated. A central aperture 48 is defined in barrier 30,and a similar aperture is formed in every barrier, to allow for passageof a tubing manifold.

This figure also exemplifies projections 46 that may extend around thecircumference of support 10. The projections may assume the form ofsemi-circular air-filled “bubbles,” tiny fingers or similarprotuberances. Projections 46 may be limited to those areas of support10 that engage the head of the infant resting upon support 10.

Support 10 is fabricated of a pliable material that may also benon-latex, hypoallergenic material that is heat resistant and flameretardant. The material may also be washable, or covered by a removable,washable or disposable sleeve or covering which may be slipped oversupport 10. A new sanitary sleeve or covering (not shown) may be usedwhenever desired, or for each new patient, during the extended life ofsupport 10.

FIG. 2 shows, schematically, the system for selectively, andsequentially, inflating the individual compartments 12, 14, 16, 18, 20,22 and 24 within head support 10 in accordance with the description ofthe preferred embodiment. A manifold 50, that is generally oval-shaped,is shown in dotted outline in FIG. 2. Manifold 50 passes through analigned aperture in each barrier, so that the manifold is seated withinthe interior of head support 10. Aperture 48 in barrier 30 isillustrative of such feature, and an aperture is present in eachbarrier.

The system for pressurizing the head support 10 includes pump 54, whichreceives power from plug 52 that is inserted into an electricalreceptacle (not shown), conduit 56 which delivers the pressurized airfrom pump 54 to heater 58, and central tubing 60 which delivers the airto manifold 50 for distribution to the pillow compartments. Heater 58 isof conventional design, and may be adjusted over a temperature range of32°-40° C. The gently heated air from heater 58 soothes the infant whileassisting in body temperature regulation, particularly beneficial for anewborn or premature infant.

Controller 62 includes a program (not shown) for operating the solenoidvalves associated with manifold 50 in a predetermined pattern. Thecontroller operates the valves in head support 10 in a particularpattern or sequence for specific durations of time. The pressurized airflows through conduit 60 and enters inlet port 64 of head support 10.

First branch tube 68, with valve 70 operatively associated therewith,governs the inflation of compartment 12. Second branch tube 72, withvalve 74 operatively associated therewith, governs the inflation ofcompartment 14. Third branch tube 76, with valve 78 operativelyassociated therewith, governs the inflation of compartment 16. Fourthbranch tube 80, with valve 82 operatively associated therewith, governsthe inflation of compartment 18. Fifth branch tube 84, with valve 86operatively associated therewith, governs the inflation of compartment20. Sixth branch tube 88, with valve 90 operatively associatedtherewith, governs the inflation of compartment 22. Lastly, seventhbranch tube 92, with valve 94 operatively associated therewith, governsthe inflation of compartment 24. An electrical conduit, indicatedgenerally by reference numeral 96, includes individual leads extendingto each one of the valves in the separate compartments and provides theelectrical force to operate each valve.

Controller 62 operates valves 70, 74, 78, 82, 86, 90 and 94, so thateach compartment within head support 10 may be individually pressurized.The valves may be solenoid valves, and maybe operated by a remoteelectrical signal passing from controller 62 via electrical conduit 96,in a known manner. The valves are normally biased closed, thus retaininghead support 10 in a deflated condition. Upon opening any one of thevalves, the pressurized air fills the related branch tube and associatedcompartment. To illustrate, if valve 70 is opened, the pressurized airfrom manifold 50 flows through branch tube 68 to fill compartment 12 andinflate same. Similar relationships hold true for filling compartments14, 16, 18, 20, 22 and 24 via their related branch tubes.

Pump 54 also governs the deflation of the selected compartment. Pump 54is reversible in operation, and withdraws air from an inflatedcompartment to deflate same. The air withdrawn from the selectedcompartment via the branch tubes and manifold 50 is coordinated with theopening and closing of the valves in each compartment.

FIG. 3A shows head support 10 in its deflated condition, while FIG. 3Bshows compartment 16 in its inflated condition. FIG. 3C showscompartment 22 in its inflated condition, while FIG. 3D showscompartment 20 in its inflated condition. The system for selectivelyinflating the compartments of head support 10 is visible in FIG. 2, butis absent from FIGS. 3A-3D. Here is also illustrated an optionalattached foam ring base 97 extending around the entire circumference onthe underside of the pillow to provide additional structure and support.

FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the dynamic infant head support, or pillow,10. The head 98 of an infant 100 is placed in opening 44 defined in theinterior of head support 10. One side of the head 98 of infant 100contacts compartments 14, 16, 18, while the opposite side of head 98contacts compartments 20, 22 and 24. The neck of the infant rests uponcompartment 12. The selective, and sequential, inflation of thecompartments within head support 10, by the selective clamping andunclamping of the several branch tubes, imparts a gentle lifting andturning movement to head 98 of the infant, to counteract anydeformational pressures upon the head. Optional projections 46, shown inFIG. 1A, provide a gentle massaging action to the scalp and stabilizethe head as it is being lifted and turned slightly. As previouslymentioned, it is desirable to heat the delivered air to warm and calmthe infant. FIG. 4 also shows the location of conduit 60 as the conduitenters the support 10 via inlet port 64 to join manifold 50 as it wouldbe arranged in the preferred embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a bottom plan view of the head support of FIG. 4, with head 98of infant 100 resting in central opening 44. The neck of the supineinfant rests upon compartment 12. A sling (not shown) may extend looselyacross opening 44 to provide supplemental covering for head 98 of infant100. This figure further exhibits the implementation of conduit 96(shown generally in FIG. 2), which comprises seven lead lines 102, 104,106, 108, 110, 112 and 114. Electrical lines, or leads, 102, 104 and106, extend into compartments 14, 16, and 18 to operate valves 74, 78and 82, respectively. Electrical lines, or leads, 108, 110, 112 and 114,extend into compartments 20, 22, 24 and 12, to operate valves 86, 90, 94and 70. The electrical circuitry and the pneumatic circuitry areoperated, in an interrelated, cooperative manner by controller 62, ofconventional design. The sequence for selectively inflating anddeflating the compartments within head support 10 is determined bycontroller 62.

FIG. 6A is a top plan view of a properly formed head of an infant, whileFIG. 6B is a top plan view of a deformed head of an infant. Head support10 is designed to prevent and/or correct the deformed head of FIG. 6B,without resort to orthotics and/or surgery.

FIG. 7 is schematic view of a first alternative embodiment of thedynamic infant head support system. Support 210, is an oval ring ordoughnut-shaped pillow, including seven compartments 212, 214, 216, 218,220, 222 and 224. Barriers 226, 228, 230, 232, 234, 236 and 238 separatethe compartments from one another. The dimensions of each compartmentare defined by a first barrier, a second adjacent barrier, an outer walland an inner wall. Compartment 212, by way of illustration, is definedby barrier 238 and barrier 226, and by outer wall 240 and inner wall242. An oval-shaped opening 244 is formed in the interior of headsupport 210. The oval shape of head support 210 ensures that compartment212, at the base of the support, adequately supports the neck of aninfant in supine position.

FIG. 7 further depicts the system for selectively, and sequentially,inflating the individual compartments 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222 and224 within head support 210. Manifold 251 is positioned externally ofsupport 210, in contrast to the location of manifold 50 within support10, in the preferred embodiment of FIGS. 1-5. Branch tubes 246, 248,250, 252, 254, 256, and 257 extend from manifold 251 to couplings 258,260, 262, 264, 266, 268, and 270, distributed about support 210. Onecoupling is operatively associated with each compartment within support210, so that the compartments are individually inflated and deflated.

The system for pressurizing head support 210 includes pump 272, whichreceives power from plug 274 inserted into an electrical receptacle (notshown), conduit 276 which delivers the pressurized air from pump 272 toheater 278, and central tubing 280 which delivers the air to manifold251 for distribution to the pillow compartments.

Controller 282 includes a program (not shown) for operating the solenoidvalves connected to manifold 251 in a predetermined pattern. Thesolenoid valves are identified by reference numerals 284, 286, 288, 290,292, 294 and 296. The controller operates the solenoid valves in aparticular pattern or sequence, for specific durations of time, so thateach compartment within head support 210 may be individuallypressurized. The solenoid valves may be operated by remote electricalsignals passing from controller 282 via electrical conduit 298, in aknown manner.

The solenoid valves are normally biased closed, thus retaining headsupport 210 in a deflated condition. Upon opening any one of thesolenoid valves, the pressurized air fills the related branch tube andthe associated compartment. To illustrate, if solenoid valve 284 isopened via a signal from controller 282, the pressurized air frommanifold 251 flows through branch tube 246 and coupling 258 to fillcompartment 218 and inflate same. Similar relationships hold true forfilling compartments 220, 222, 224, 212, 214 and 216 and the relatedbranch tubes and couplings.

Pump 272 also governs the deflation of the selected compartment in headsupport 210. Pump 272 is reversible in operation, and withdraws air froman inflated compartment to deflate same. The air withdrawn from theselected compartment via the couplings and branch tubes and manifold 251is coordinated with the opening and closing of valves in eachcompartment.

FIGS. 8-9B illustrate a second alternative head support, indicatedgenerally by reference numeral 310. Whereas head support 10, of thepreferred embodiment of FIGS. 1-5, and head support 210, of the firstalternative embodiment of FIG. 7, each utilize one manifold, headsupport 310 employs two distinct pillow systems concentrically pairedtogether. Interior manifold 312 is operatively associated with oval ordoughnut-shaped pillow 316, while an exterior assembly (not shown) ofmanifold, valves and branch tubing is operatively associated with ovalor doughnut-shaped pillow 318. Solenoid valve 320 clamps, and unclamps,branch tube 322 to regulate the flow of pressurized air into acompartment within the inner pillow 316. The outer pillow operates in asimilar fashion to that of the first alternative embodiment detailed inFIG. 7. Coupling 324, associated with a compartment of pillow 318, isincluded in the drawing. The advantage of pairing different-sized,complete head supports together is the ability to service numerouspatients, with diverse head sizes, with the availability of a single,readily adaptable device.

Yet other refinements and improvements to the dynamic head support mayoccur to the artisan skilled in the pertinent fields of endeavor. Forexample, the program (not shown) within controller 62 may have aconstant or adjustable sequence setting and preset inflation/deflationdurations, or these features may be customized by the purchasinginstitution, such as a hospital. Head support 10 or 210 may be producedin varying sizes appropriate for premature infants and children upthrough 12 months of age, based on normalized circumference growth chartaverages, or consist of two or more concentric pillow systems in onedevice such as head support 310. The shape of the pillow and the centralopening therein may be altered; while an oval shape is shown, adoughnut-shaped, round or even modified horseshoe-shaped pillow willfunction satisfactorily.

Instead of air, the head support system may utilize a gel, a liquid orother fluid, or mechanical devices, to inflate or expand thecompartments within the head support. A battery power source may replacethe plug and electrical receptacle for delivering power to the systemfor inflating and deflating the head support. The plug cord may be of apredetermined length or of a known retractable design. The power switchmay be illuminated or activated and deactivated by remote control.

The present invention could be used in conjunction with a stabilizingwedge for the shoulders or torso, thereby reducing the possibility ofinfant-initiated rotation to prone position, a potential suffocationrisk. Although the invention has been exemplified by showing sevencompartments, the pillow may include more or less than sevencompartments without departing from the teachings of the invention.

Consequently, the appended claims should be liberally construed in amanner consistent with the considerable scope of the present invention,and should not be restricted to their literal terms.

1. A dynamic head support comprising a) an inflatable pillow with acentral opening; b) means for expanding and contracting differentdistinct portions of said pillow around said central opening; c) asystem, including a controller, for operating said means for expandingand contracting said pillow at different portions in a predeterminedsequence to gently lift and mildly turn the head of a patient placed insaid central opening.
 2. The dynamic head support as defined in claim 1,wherein said pillow is oval or doughnut-shaped.
 3. The dynamic headsupport as defined in claim 1, wherein said pillow includes an outerwall, an inner wall defining said central opening, and a plurality ofbarriers positioned within the interior of said pillow.
 4. The dynamichead support of claim 3, wherein said barriers extend between the innerand outer walls of said pillow, and said barriers are spaced along thelength of said pillow between said inner and outer walls to defineseparate compartments.
 5. The dynamic head support of claim 4, whereineach barrier has an aperture formed therein, and a manifold extendsthrough said apertures in said barriers in a ring-like manner around theinterior of said pillow.
 6. The dynamic head support of claim 1, whereinsaid means for expanding and contracting said pillow includes a pump anda conduit leading from said pump to said pillow, said conduit beingconnected to a manifold located within the interior of said pillow. 7.The dynamic head support of claim 6, wherein said pump is a reversiblepump.
 8. The dynamic head support of claim 6, wherein an adjustableheater is connected to said conduit, said heater gently warming fluidpassing through said conduit.
 9. A dynamic head support systemcomprising: a) an oval or doughnut-shaped pillow with a central opening,b) a plurality of barriers disposed at spaced intervals about theinterior of said pillow to divide the pillow into separate compartments,c) an aperture formed in each barrier, d) a manifold passing throughsaid aperture in each barrier and extending completely about theinterior of said pillow in a ring-like manner, e) a plurality of branchtubes disposed at spaced intervals about said manifold, one branch tubebeing located within each compartment, f) a plurality of valves, onevalve being secured to each one of said branch tubes, g) pump means forintroducing pressurized fluid into said manifold for distribution intosaid plurality of branch tubes, h) a controller for operating saidvalves in a predetermined sequence for opening and closing said branchtubes to inflate or expand and deflate or contract selected ones of saidcompartments within said head support.
 10. The dynamic head supportsystem as defined in claim 9, wherein said pump means comprises a pumpfor delivery of pressurized fluid, and a power source for operating saidpump.
 11. The dynamic head support system as defined in claim 9, whereinsaid pump means includes a heater for delivering warm fluid to saidmanifold within said head support.
 12. The dynamic head support systemof claim 9, wherein said central opening is oval in shape when shown ina top plan view, said opening being of sufficient size to receivetherein the head of the person to receive treatment.
 13. The dynamichead support system of claim 12, wherein the pillow is divided intoseven compartments.
 14. The dynamic head support system of claim 13wherein two compartments are formed at the upper end of said supportwhile one compartment is formed at the base of the pillow, the onecompartment at the base is adapted to support the neck of the patientduring treatment in a supine position while the head of the patient fitsinto said central opening.
 15. The dynamic head support system asdefined in claim 9, wherein projections are defined on the exteriorsurfaces of said pillow for massaging and stabilizing the scalp of apatient resting upon said head support.
 16. The dynamic head supportsystem of claim 15, wherein said projections are in the form of“bubble-wrap” air cells or solid finger-like protuberances.
 17. Adynamic head support system comprising: a) at least one oval ordoughnut-shaped pillow with a central opening, b) a plurality ofbarriers disposed at spaced intervals about the interior of said pillowto divide the pillow into separate compartments, c) a plurality ofcouplings, one coupling operatively associated with each compartment, d)a manifold, e) a plurality of branch tubes extending between saidmanifold and said couplings on said pillow, f) a plurality of valves,one valve being secured to each one of said branch tubes, g) means forintroducing fluid into said manifold for distribution into saidplurality of branch tubes, h) said means including a controller foroperating said valves in a predetermined sequence for opening andclosing said branch tubes to inflate or expand and deflate or contractselected ones of said compartments, within said head support.
 18. Thedynamic head support as defined in claim 17, wherein said means furtherincludes a pump for delivery of pressurized fluid or gel or a mechanicaldevice, and a power source for operating said pump.
 19. The dynamic headsupport as defined in claim 17 wherein said manifold is situatedexternal to said pillow.
 20. The dynamic head support system of claim 17wherein said means includes a heater for delivering warm fluid to saidmanifold.
 21. The dynamic head support system of claim 17 wherein saidcentral opening is oval in shape when shown in a top plan view, saidopening being of sufficient size to receive therein the head of theperson to receive treatment.
 22. The dynamic head support system ofclaim 17 including a pair of concentric oval or doughnut-shaped pillowseach with a central opening, the outer head support being elevated inrelation to the inner head support, wherein the outer, larger pillow hasan exterior assembly of manifold, values and branch tubes, and thesmaller inner pillow has an interior assembly of manifold, valves andbranch tubes.
 23. A method for treating or preventing asymmetric headdeformities with a dynamic head support, said head support comprising apillow with a central opening, the method comprising the steps of: a)expanding and contracting different distinct portions of said pillowaround said central opening in a predetermined sequence to gently liftand mildly turn the head of a patient placed in said central opening toprevent or alleviate head deformation.
 24. The method of claim 23,wherein expansion and contraction of said different distinct portions ofsaid pillow is implemented by use of a pressurized fluid or gel or amechanical device.
 25. The method of claim 23 wherein the pillow iswider at its top and narrower at its base, and further including thestep of placing the neck of the patient upon the narrow base for supportduring treatment.
 26. A method for treating or preventing asymmetrichead deformities with a dynamic head support, said head supportcomprising an oval or doughnut-shaped pillow with a central opening, themethod comprising the steps of: a) positioning barriers within theinterior of said pillow to divide same into a plurality of compartments,b) inserting a ring-shaped manifold through said barriers in theinterior of said pillow to establish communication with eachcompartment, c) securing one branch tube to said manifold as saidmanifold passes through each compartment, d) connecting a pump to saidpillow to deliver fluid under pressure to said manifold and said branchtubes, e) positioning valves on each branch tube to control the deliveryof fluid to each compartment, f) positioning the head of a patient to betreated in the central opening of the pillow, the patient resting in asupine position, and g) selectively opening or closing each valve oneach branch tube to permit fluid to inflate or deflate the relatedcompartment in a sequential manner, the selective and sequentialinflation of the compartments within the pillow gently lifting andturning slightly the head of the patient to prevent, or alleviate, headdeformation.
 27. The method of claim 26, wherein said fluid is heated,at a position removed from the pillow, prior to introduction into thepillow.
 28. A method for treating or preventing asymmetric headdeformities with a dynamic head support, said head support comprising anoval or doughnut-shaped pillow with a central opening, the methodcomprising the steps of: a) positioning barriers within the interior ofsaid pillow to divide same into a plurality of compartments, b) joininga manifold, at a remote location to said pillow via branch tubes toestablish communication with each compartment, c) connecting a pump tosaid pillow to deliver fluid under pressure to said manifold and saidbranch tubes, d) positioning valves on each branch tube to control thedelivery of fluid to each compartment, e) positioning the head of apatient to be treated in the central opening of the pillow, the patientresting in a supine position, and f) selectively opening or closing eachvalve on each branch tube to permit fluid to inflate the relatedcompartment in a sequential manner, the selective and sequentialinflation of the compartments within the pillow gently lifting andturning slightly the head of the patient to prevent or alleviate headdeformation.
 29. The method of claim 28, wherein said fluid is heated,at a position removed from the pillow, prior to introduction intopillow.
 30. The method of claim 28, wherein the pillow is wider at itstop and narrower at its base, and the method includes the step ofplacing the neck of the patient upon the narrow base for support duringtreatment.